Servias Ministries Blog

In FATHER’S Master Plan, HIS timing wil expose those who are not eagerly waiting for the second coming of Christ!

“Scoffers” are people who openly mock, ridicule, or dismiss God, His Truth, and His promises—especially regarding judgment, righteousness, and the return of Christ.

Peter wrote by The Holy Spirit in 2^nd Peter chapter 3:

1 Beloved friends, this is now the second letter I have written to you in which I’ve attempted to stir you up and awaken you to a proper mind-set.

2 So never forget both the prophecies spoken by the Holy prophets of old and the teaching of Our Lord and Savior spoken by your apostles.

We must not become forgetful hearer of The Word!

3 Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will multiply, chasing after their evil desires.

4 They will say, “So what about this promise of His coming? Our ancestors are dead and buried, yet everything is still the same as it was since from the beginning of time until now.”

5 But they conveniently overlook that from the beginning, the heavens and earth were created by God’s Word. He spoke and the dry ground separated from the waters.

6 Then long afterward He destroyed the world with a tremendous flood by those very waters.

7 And now, by the same powerful Word, the heavens and the earth are reserved for fire, being kept for judgment day, when all the ungodly will perish.

8 So, dear friends, don’t let this one thing escape your notice: a single day counts like a thousand years to the Lord YAHWEH, and a thousand years counts as one day.

A scoffer is not just someone who doubts—he is someone who mocks Spiritual Truth, rejects correction, treats Holy things with contempt, and often influences others toward unbelief.

It is written by The Holy Spirit in Jude:

17 But you, my delightfully Loved friends, remember the prophecies of the apostles of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One.

18 They taught you, “In the last days there will always be mockers, motivated by their own ungodly desires.”

19 These people cause divisions and are followers of their own natural instincts, devoid of the Life of the Spirit.

20 But you, my delightfully Loved friends, constantly and progressively build yourselves up on the foundation of your most holy faith by praying every moment in the Spirit.

21 Fasten your hearts to the Love of God and receive the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gives us Eternal life.

22 Keep being compassionate to those who still have doubts,

23 and snatch others out of the fire to save them. Be merciful over and over to them, but always couple your mercy with the fear of God. Be extremely careful to keep yourselves free from the pollutions of the flesh.

We must not succumb to the opinions of those who have preferred their own worldly lifestyle rationalizing away the imminent return of Christ.  As Peter wrote:

don’t let this one thing escape your notice: a single day counts like a thousand years to the Lord YAHWEH, and a thousand years counts as one day.

FATHER created time for us to live by, yet HE is not restricted to our understanding of time.  HE has allowed us to understand the signs of the time so that we would not be caught unaware.

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in Romans chapter 11:

25 For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.

26 And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob;

The reality is this: our opinions don’t matter because we are subject to blindness and ignorance just as Israel has been in their mindset.  I choose to be led by The Holy Spirit even though I may not understand all the facts and Truth.  FATHER will do whatever HE pleases and I am good with that reality!

In FATHER’S Master Plan, HIS Love for us is evidenced by HIS mercy!

FATHER’S mercy allows me to take my part within the Bride of Christ.  The precious Blood of Jesus is the only reason I qualify.  When we take Holy Communion, let us not forget FATHER’S great mercy in providing HIS Son to redeem us from certain destruction.  Jesus provided our only means to be spotless and blameless so that we could become His acceptable bride.

In the Bible, mercy is the compassionate, undeserved kindness that God shows to people—especially when they deserve judgment. It’s closely tied to forgiveness, Love, and patience.

Core meaning of Biblical mercy

At its heart, mercy means:

• Not receiving the punishment you deserve
• Being shown compassion in your weakness or failure
• God acting in Love toward sinners instead of judgment

Old Testament perspective

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as mercy is “chesed”—a rich term meaning:

• Steadfast Love
• Lovingkindness
• Covenant faithfulness

For example, God repeatedly shows mercy to Israel despite their disobedience, emphasizing that His mercy is enduring and loyal, not fleeting.

New Testament perspective

In the New Testament, mercy (Greek: “eleos”) emphasizes:

• Forgiveness of sins
• Compassion toward the suffering
• God’s grace through salvation

A clear example is in the teachings of Jesus Christ, Who showed mercy to sinners, healed the broken, and taught:

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

Mercy vs. Grace (helpful distinction)

• Mercy = not getting what you deserve (withheld punishment)
• Grace = receiving what you don’t deserve (unearned blessing)

How mercy is lived out

Biblically, mercy isn’t just something God shows—it’s something believers are called to practice:

• Forgiving others
• Helping those in need
• Showing compassion instead of harsh judgment

A key verse summarizes it well:

“He has shown you… what is good… to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

Simple summary

Biblical mercy = God’s compassionate forgiveness and kindness toward people who deserve judgment—and a call for us to treat others the same way.

Here are some of the most powerful Bible stories that vividly show mercy in action:

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1. The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32)

Told by Jesus Christ

A son wastes his inheritance in sinful living and returns home expecting rejection—but instead:

• His father runs to him
• Embraces him
• Restores him fully

Mercy shown:
The father does not give the punishment the son deserves. Instead, he offers forgiveness, Love, and restoration.

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2. The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:1–11)

Also involving Jesus Christ

A woman is caught in sin and brought before Jesus. According to the law, she could be stoned. Instead, Jesus says:

“He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone first.”

Everyone leaves, and He tells her:

“Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.”

Mercy shown:
She deserved judgment, but received forgiveness and a chance to change.

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3. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37)

A man is beaten and left for dead. Religious leaders pass by, but a Samaritan—someone considered an outsider—stops to help:

• He bandages wounds
• Takes him to safety
• Pays for his care

Mercy shown:
Compassion in action toward someone in desperate need, regardless of social boundaries.

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4. King David and Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9)

Featuring King David

Mephibosheth, the grandson of David’s enemy, could have been executed. Instead:

• David restores his land
• Invites him to eat at the king’s table

Mercy shown:
Kindness given to someone who had no power and expected judgment.

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5. God Spares Nineveh (Book of Jonah)

Involving the prophet Jonah

Nineveh was a wicked city deserving destruction. But when the people repent:

• God relents
• Judgment is withheld

Mercy shown:
God gives forgiveness instead of destruction when people turn from sin.

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6. The Crucifixion of Jesus (Luke 23:34)

At the cross, Jesus Christ says:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Mercy shown:
Even while being executed, He asks forgiveness for those responsible.

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To Summarize

Across all these stories, Biblical mercy consistently looks like:

• Forgiveness instead of punishment
• Compassion instead of condemnation
• Restoration instead of rejection

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Here’s what Biblical mercy looks like in everyday life, especially in the kinds of situations you actually face:

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In Business

Mercy doesn’t mean abandoning standards—it means balancing truth with compassion.

Examples:

• An employee makes a costly mistake → instead of immediate termination, you correct, train, and give another chance
• A customer is difficult or unfair → you respond calmly instead of escalating
• Someone owes you money but is genuinely struggling → you show flexibility or grace in repayment

Biblical principle: Justice matters—but mercy remembers people are imperfect.

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In Family

This is where mercy is tested the most.

Examples:

• A spouse or child says something hurtful → you choose forgiveness instead of holding it over them
• Repeated mistakes → you correct them, but don’t weaponize past failures
• Conflict → you seek restoration, not “winning” the argument

This reflects the heart of the father in the Prodigal Son story told by Jesus Christ.

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In Conflict (friends, church, community)

Mercy changes how you respond when wronged.

Examples:

• Someone gossips about you → you don’t retaliate
• You’re treated unfairly → you respond with integrity, not revenge
• You have the upper hand → you choose restraint instead of crushing the other person

Key idea: Mercy absorbs offense instead of multiplying it.

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In Leadership

If you lead people—employees, ministry, or family—mercy builds loyalty and trust.

Examples:

• You discipline, but don’t humiliate
• You correct privately instead of publicly shaming
• You look at the person, not just the failure

Mercy makes people grow; harshness often just makes them hide.

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In Daily Attitude

Mercy is also internal—not just actions.

Examples:

• You assume the best instead of the worst
• You’re patient with people’s weaknesses
• You remember how much mercy God has shown you

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The balance: Mercy + Truth

Biblical mercy is not:

• Ignoring sin
• Letting people walk all over you
• Avoiding accountability

Instead, it is:

• Truth + compassion together
• Justice tempered with Love

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Simple way to apply it

Before reacting, ask:

“What would I deserve in this situation… and what would mercy do instead?”

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In essence:

Mercy is choosing to treat people better than they deserve—because God has treated us that way.

In FATHER’S Master Plan, HE describes what generation will experience the second coming of Christ!

Those of us who are eagerly waiting for His Return will not be surprised.  Our priorities are aligning with our true expectations.

Jesus spoke in Mark chapter 13:

28 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.

29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near-at the doors!

30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.

31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will by no means pass away.

When Jesus says it, I believe it!  The true Bride is preparing herself in her righteous acts.

The Beloved Disciple recorded what he heard and saw by The Holy Spirit in Revelation chapter 19:

7 Let us rejoice and exalt Him and give Him glory, because the wedding celebration of the Lamb has come. And His bride has made herself ready.

8 Fine linen, shining bright and clear, has been given to her to wear, and the fine linen represents the righteous deeds (or acts) of his Holy believers.”

Righteous acts are actions that reflect God’s Character—things done in obedience to Him, with right motives, and in alignment with His moral will.

In summary, righteous acts are doing what is right in God’s Eyes, from a sincere heart, through faith, and expressed in Love toward others.

The Beloved differentiated such acts as he wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1^st John chapter 3:

7 Delightfully Loved children, don’t let anyone divert you from this Truth. The person who keeps doing what is right proves that he is righteous before God, even as the Messiah is righteous.

8 But the one who indulges in a sinful life is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God was revealed was to undo and destroy the works of the devil.

We are to focus on ministering to those around us with righteous acts that will draw them closer to Our Lord.  We are to set our minds on walking in such a manner at all times.

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in Colossians chapter 3:

1 Since you have been raised to new Life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of Heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s Right Hand.

2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

4 When Christ Who is our Life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Wherever your sight is set, that is where your thoughts will go by default!

If you are focused on sports, entertainment, success, fame, popularity, politics, social media, you can easily be lulled to sleep.  What is the bride-in-waiting focused on?

It is prophesied by The Holy Spirit in Daniel chapter 12:

1 “At that time, the great angel-prince, Michael, protector of your people, will take his stand. It will be a time of great distress, the worst trouble your nation has ever known. When that time comes, your own people will be spared—all those whose names are found written in the Book of Life.

2 “Multitudes of those who are sleeping in the Land of Dust will awaken, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting disgrace.

3 Those who are wise will shine radiantly as the sky at midday. And those who turn many to the way of righteousness will shine brightly as stars for all Eternity.

Our focus is to be among those whose names are found written in the Book of Life.  Those who aren’t will suffer in everlasting shame and disgrace.

4 “And you, Daniel, must guard these Words and keep the scroll sealed until the time of the end. Many will go here and there, and knowledge will continue to increase.”

Knowledge is now increasing at a staggering rate.

As Joseph Morris shared in the recent video I posted, the requirements for the return of Christ have all been met.  Earth is positioning itself for His return.

Jesus affirmed in Luke chapter 21:

27 “And at last, when you see how the Son of Man comes—surrounded with a cloud, with great power and miracles, in the radiance of His splendor, and with great glory and praises—it will make you jump for joy! For the time of your full transformation has arrived.”

In other Words, when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!”

The Jewish wedding ceremony provides us with a chronological series of seasons which will climax with the return of Christ for His Bride!

Those who eagerly await His Return will not be surprised.  Their priorities will align with their true expectation.

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1^st Thessalonians chapter 5:

1 Now, beloved brothers and sisters, concerning the question of God’s precise times and specific seasons, you don’t need me to write anything to you.

2 For you already know quite well that the Day of the Lord will come unexpectedly and as a complete surprise.

It is clear that the believers had substantial discussions concerning the second coming of Christ.

3 For while some are saying, “Finally we have peace and security,” sudden destruction will arrive at their doorstep, like labor pains seizing a pregnant woman—and with no chance of escape!

4 But you, beloved brothers and sisters, are not living in the dark, allowing that day to creep up on you like a thief coming to steal.

5 For you are all children of the light and children of the day. We don’t belong to the night nor to darkness.

6 This is why we must not fall asleep, as the rest do, but keep wide awake and clearheaded.

7 For those who are asleep sleep the night away, and drunkards get drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, we must stay alert and clearheaded by placing the breastplate of faith and love over our hearts, and a helmet of the hope of salvation over our thoughts.

You and I are to remain vigilant and not allow ourselves to digress into focusing on the less important.  We are to remain ever conscious that Our Lord could return at any time.

Jesus spoke in Mark chapter 13:

32 “Concerning that day and exact hour, no one knows when it will arrive, not the angels of Heaven, not even the Son—only the Father knows.

33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the (exact) time is.

Only GOD THE FATHER knows the moment Jesus will return.  However, we will know the season.  Jesus provided us with a general perspective as He answered the disciples’ question.

Matthew recorded by The Holy Spirit in Matthew chapter 24:

3 Later, when they arrived at the Mount of Olives, His disciples came privately to where He was sitting and said, “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what sign should we expect to signal your coming and the completion of this age?”

In essence:

When will the temple be destroyed?

What will be the sign of Your coming?

What will be the sign of the end of the age?

Recorded events show us that AD32-135 and AD 1967-unknown, are the periods Jesus referenced.  The destruction of the temple occurred in 70 AD.  The Six-day War in June 1967, was when Israel once again, became a nation.  The tender leaves of the fig tree (Israel) came forth.

Jesus spoke in Luke chapter 21:

25 “Expect to witness amazing and perplexing signs with the sun, the moon, and the stars. The raging of the sea will bring desperation and turmoil to many nations. 26 Earthquakes will bring panic and disaster. What men see coming to the earth will cause the fear of doom to grip their hearts, for they will even see the powers of the heavenly realm shaken!

We are now witnessing desperation and turmoil among nations.  We are seeing an notable increase of earthquakes and volcanic activity.  Unusual weather events continue to come forth in greater frequency.

27-28 “And at last, when you see how the Son of Man comes—surrounded with a cloud, with great power and miracles, in the radiance of His splendor, and with great glory and praises—it will make you jump for joy! For the time of your full transformation has arrived.”

That day will be both a glorious day and terrifying day.

It is written by The Holy Spirit in Isaiah chapter 13:

6 Wail, for the Day of the Lord YAHWEH is near! It will come with the destructive power of Shaddai.

7 For this reason, every hand will go limp and every heart will melt.

8 All the Babylonians will be seized with panic and pain. Anguish will grip them like a woman in labor. They will look at one another with astonishment, and their faces will be flames of fire!

9 Behold! The Day of the Lord is coming with pitiless fury and fierce anger. The land will be made desolate, destroying the sinners who inhabit it.

10 For the stars of the heavens and their constellations will not give their light. The rising sun will be obscured, and the moon won’t shine.

11 “I will bring punishment to the world for its evil and to the wicked for their sins. I will shatter the arrogance of the proud, and will humble the pride of the high and mighty.

In the end, FATHER’S Kingdom will fill the earth, and HE will not allow any evil, wickedness, or sin to exist within HIS Kingdom.  Those eagerly awaiting the second coming of Jesus will be filled with joy.  Everyone else will be terrified.

FATHER instituted a Jewish wedding ceremony to reflect what is expected in HIS Master Plan!

Our Heavenly Father provides us with an overview of HIS Plan in the physical.

Jesus spoke in Matthew 22:

2 “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain King who arranged a marriage for His Son”

A Jewish wedding represents:

• Covenant with God
• Creation of a new household
• Community celebration
• Sacred commitment
• Remembrance of history

Marriage is viewed as helping restore the world (tikkun olam) through love, family, and faith.

The following provides the details:

A traditional Jewish wedding follows a meaningful sequence of rituals that symbolize covenant, joy, and the creation of a new family. While customs can vary slightly among communities (Orthodox, Conservative, Reform), the core structure is very similar.

Here are the major steps in a traditional Jewish wedding ceremony:

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1. Kabbalat Panim (Reception)

Before the ceremony, the bride and groom hold separate receptions.

• The groom may host a tish (table gathering) with friends and family, often sharing Torah thoughts and celebrating.
• The bride greets guests while seated like a queen.

This reflects the excitement and anticipation before the covenant of marriage.

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2. Bedeken (Veiling of the Bride)

The groom approaches the bride and places the veil over her face.

Meaning:

• Symbolizes modesty and inner beauty.
• Reminds of the story of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel.
• Confirms the groom is marrying the correct bride.

Family blessings are often given at this moment.

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3. Processional to the Chuppah

The ceremony takes place under a chuppah (wedding canopy).

• Represents the couple’s new home.
• Open on all sides to symbolize hospitality like the tent of Abraham.

Parents typically escort the bride and groom to the chuppah.

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4. Hakafot / Circling

In many traditions, the bride circles the groom seven times.

Symbolism:

• Creating a spiritual “wall” of protection
• Representing the seven days of creation.

(Some modern ceremonies have both partners circle each other.)

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5. Kiddushin (Betrothal)

This is the formal sanctification of the marriage.

Key elements:

• Blessing over wine
• The groom places a ring on the bride’s finger
• Declaration: “Behold, you are consecrated to me according to the law of Moses and Israel.”

Two witnesses confirm the act.

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6. Reading of the Ketubah

The ketubah (marriage contract) is read aloud.

It outlines:

• The groom’s responsibilities
• Financial protections for the bride
• The seriousness of the covenant

The document is then typically displayed or kept as a keepsake.

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7. Nissuin (Marriage Blessings)

The second stage of marriage.

The Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot) are recited over wine.

These blessings celebrate:

• Creation
• Joy
• The couple
• The restoration of Jerusalem
• Human companionship

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8. Breaking the Glass

At the end of the ceremony, the groom (and sometimes both partners) break a glass with their foot.

Common meanings:

• Remembering the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
• Even in moments of joy, the Jewish people remember sorrow.

Guests shout “Mazel Tov!”

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9. Yichud (Private Seclusion)

Immediately after the ceremony, the couple spends a few minutes alone together.

This symbolizes:

• Their new life together
• A moment of privacy before the celebration

They often break their fast and eat something.

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10. Wedding Feast & Celebration

The celebration includes:

• Festive meal
• Music and dancing
• The Hora (chair dance)
• Reciting the Sheva Brachot again during the meal

Joy is considered a mitzvah (commandment) at a Jewish wedding.

I hope you are developing a sense of urgency to prepare yourself for His second coming!

FATHER’S Divine Master Plan included a Bride HE can trust!

Our Heavenly Father designed a Divine Master Plan with a husband-wife relationship based on Agape Love, unity, and trustworthiness. 

The term trustworthy describes a person who is reliable, honest, and deserving of confidence. It indicates consistency, integrity, and the ability to fulfill promises or function accurately.  How trustworthy are you?  If you are not trustworthy, can Jesus have an intimate relationship with you as member of His Bride?

As I wrote yesterday, sin is rooted in selfishness, which is the greatest obstacle to intimacy.  Will Our Heavenly Father grant power and authority to someone who can’t be trusted?  Our willingness to open suffer on His behalf is a sign of reliability and integrity.  We are seen as being consistent and loyal to Our Lord.

Paul sums it up when he also wrote in 2^nd Timothy chapter 2:

12 If we are joined with Him in His sufferings, then we will reign together with Him in His triumph. But if we disregard Him, then He will also disregard us.

13 But even if we are faithless, He will still be full of faith, for He never wavers in his faithfulness to us!

Would you share your most intimate secrets with someone who is untrustworthy?  As we become more reliable, Jesus is able to establish a bond of trust with us.  One of the most obvious signs of reliability is our consistency of how we deploy our personal finances.  If I really trust The Word, I won’t hesitate to give, especially when The Holy Spirit directs me to give.

David expressed his trust in THE LORD as he recorded by The Holy Spirit in Psalm chapter 31:

14 I’m desperate, Lord! I throw myself upon You, for You alone are My God!

15 My life, my every moment, my destiny—it’s all in Your Hands. So I know You can deliver me from those who persecute me relentlessly.

16 Smile on me, Your servant. Let your undying Love and glorious grace save me from all this gloom.

17 As I call upon you, let my shame and disgrace be replaced by Your favor once again. But let shame and disgrace fall instead upon the wicked—those going to their own doom, drifting down in silence to the dust of death.

Paul had to warn and correct the church at Corinth because of their immaturity and untrustworthiness.  He wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1^st Corinthians chapter 4:

11 If you could see us now, you’d find that we are hungry and thirsty, poorly clothed, brutally treated, and with no roof over our heads.

12 We work hard, toiling with our own hands. When people abuse and insult us, we respond with a blessing, and when severely persecuted, we endure it with patience.

13 When we are slandered incessantly, we always answer gently, ready to reconcile. Even now, in the world’s opinion, we are nothing but filth and the lowest scum.

14 I’m not writing this to embarrass you or to shame you, but to correct you as the children I Love.

15 For although you could have countless babysitters in Christ telling you what you’re doing wrong, you don’t have many fathers who correct you in Love. But I’m a true father to you, for I became your father when I gave you the Gospel and brought you into union with Jesus, the Anointed One.

16 So I encourage you, my children, to follow the example that I live before you.

Paul gave us great detail of his willingness to suffer on behalf of Christ.  This is a clear indication of his trustworthiness as a mature believer in Christ.  He was all in!

Jesus spoke in John chapter 15:

15 I no longer call you ‘servants,’ because a master doesn’t confide in his servants, and servants don’t always understand what the master is doing. But I call you My most intimate and cherished friends, for I reveal to you everything that I’ve heard from My Father.

Does He know you and me as His intimate and cherished friends?

FATHER’S Divine Master Plan included a Bride for HIS Son the Bridegroom!

Our Heavenly Father designed a Divine Master Plan with a husband-wife relationship based on Agape Love and unity. 

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in 2^nd Corinthians chapter 11:

2 You need to know that God’s passion is burning inside me for you, because, like a Loving father, I have pledged your hand in marriage to Christ, your True Bridegroom. I’ve also promised that I would present His fiancée to Him as a pure virgin bride.

Marriage is intended to create a unified, Divine bond between a man and a woman.  That is the true Biblical definition of marriage, and no other worldly definition is acceptable in the Eyes of Our Heavenly Father.

In a marriage, there will be suffering, especially in the early years.  However, on the other hand, the bond created by suffering together will be a sweeter, stronger, and more mature relationship.

It is written by The Holy Spirit in Hebrews chapter 2:

9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.

10 For now He towers above all creation, for all things exist through Him and for Him. And that God made Him, Pioneer of our salvation, perfect through His sufferings, for this is how He brings many sons and daughters to share in His glory.

Jesus willingly went through excruciating suffering on our behalf.  We cannot comprehend the severity of His suffering in the final week before His crucifixion.  He completely denied His flesh for us.  Are we willing to suffer as we move toward becoming a pure virgin bride for Him?

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in Philippians chapter 3:

9 My passion is to be consumed with Him and not cling to my own “righteousness” based in keeping the written Law. My only “righteousness” will be His, based on the faithfulness of Jesus Christ—the very righteousness that comes from God.

10 And I continually long to know the wonders of Jesus and to experience the overflowing power of His resurrection working in me. I will be one with Him in His sufferings and become like Him in his death.

11 Only then will I be able to experience complete oneness with Him in His resurrection from the realm of death.

The natural man will try to avoid suffering of any kind.  Why should we suffer?  Paul wrote “to know Him more deeply-to have a stronger connection with Him”.

The Amplified Version provides a more concise explanation:

[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope]

The reality is that suffering causes transformation.  The military understands this when they send new recruits to boot camp.  There is a rapid change in mindset and a brotherhood is developed.

What were Peter and John’s response when they were threatened and beaten by the very same leaders who unmercifully beat Jesus?

Luke recorded by The Holy Spirit in Acts chapter 5:

41 So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name.

42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

And Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in Philippians chapter 1:

29 For God has graciously given you the privilege not only to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for Him.

Are you willing to accept this privilege?

Sin is rooted in selfishness, which is the greatest obstacle to intimacy.  It hinders the formation of a strong bond.  The very opposite of sin is unwavering obedience to Our Perfect, Loving Father.

Paul sums it up when he also wrote in 2^nd Timothy chapter 2:

12 If we are joined with Him in His sufferings, then we will reign together with Him in His triumph. But if we disregard Him, then He will also disregard us.

13 But even if we are faithless, He will still be full of faith, for He never wavers in his faithfulness to us!

Within this passage lies the climax of FATHER’S Master Plan.   

FATHER promised a specific blessing to those who read and obey HIS Word referring the return of Christ!

Our Heavenly Father designed a Divine Master Plan before HE created the heavens and earth, and it is based on Agape Love and unity. 

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1^st Corinthians chapter 1:

9 God is forever faithful and can be trusted to do this in you, for HE has invited you to co-share the Life of HISs Son, Jesus, the Anointed One, our King!

10 I urge you, my brothers and sisters, for the sake of the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to agree to live in unity with one another and put to rest any division that attempts to tear you apart. Be restored as one united body living in perfect harmony. Form a consistent choreography among yourselves, having a common perspective with shared values.

There is no division or disfunction in Heaven.  How can we co-labor with Christ here on earth if we allow division to rule our thoughts and actions?  To the degree we are led by The Holy Spirit, is the degree we walk in and promote unity among the brethren.  We are often intolerant of others when we overlook our own shortcomings.

FATHER’S unfathomable Love is contained in HIS Divine Plan.  There were and are mysteries associated with HIS Love.  HE held back mysteries which had been hidden until the appropriate time so that HIS Plan would not be adversely impacted by our adversaries.

And in 1^st Corinthians chapter 2:

6 However, there is a Wisdom that we continually speak of when we are among the spiritually mature. It’s Wisdom that didn’t originate in this present age, nor did It come from the rulers of this age who are in the process of being dethroned.

7 Instead, we continually speak of this wonderful Wisdom that comes from God, hidden before now in a mystery. It is HIS secret Plan, destined before the ages, to bring us into glory.

8 None of the rulers of this present world order understood it, for if they had, they never would have crucified the Lord of shining glory.

9 This is why the Scriptures say: Things never discovered or heard of before, things beyond our ability to imagine—these are the many things God has in store for all his Lovers.

10 But God now unveils these profound realities to us by the Spirit. Yes, HE has revealed to us HIS inmost Heart and deepest mysteries through the Holy Spirit, Who constantly explores all things.

FATHER demonstrated HIS Love by sending HIS Son to the earth to pay the full price for our redemption.  This was prophesied when the Passover was instituted while the congregation of Israel was in the land of Egypt.

Moses recorded by The Holy Spirit in Exodus chapter 12:

3 Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying: ‘On the tenth of this month every man shall take for himself a lamb, according to the house of his father, a lamb for a household.

7 And they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it.

12 ‘For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD.

13 Now the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.

14 ‘So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it as a feast to the LORD throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance.

The blood of an innocent lamb prophesied of the sacrifice of Jesus, the Innocent Lamb of GOD Who gave Himself for each of us as an unfathomable expression of Love.  This was totally necessary to bring us into unity with Our Heavenly Father!  FATHER’S Plan continues to unfold!

FATHER promised a specific blessing to those who read and obey HIS Word referring the return of Christ!

These writings are all about our future!  My goal is to be called a good and faithful servant by Jesus Himself.  I trust that is your goal as well.

Jesus spoke in Matthew chapter 25:

21 “Commending His servant, the master replied, ‘You have done well, and proven yourself to be My loyal and trustworthy servant. Because you have been a faithful steward to manage a small sum, now I will put you in charge of much, much more. You will experience the delight of Your Master, Who will say to you, “Enter into the joy of your Lord!” ’

Our Heavenly Father designed a Divine Master Plan before HE created the heavens and earth.  Our goal is to see and embrace HIS Plan and be fully aligned with HIM.  This is what being led by The Holy Spirit in all about.

Moses recorded by The Holy Spirit in Genesis chapter 1:

1 When God created the heavens and the earth,

2 the earth was completely formless and empty, with nothing but darkness draped over the deep. God’s Spirit hovered over the face of the waters.

3 And then God announced, “Let there be light,” and light burst forth!

4 And God saw the light as pleasing and beautiful; HE used the light to dispel the darkness.

5 God called the light “Day,” and the darkness “Night.” And so, evening gave way to morning—the first day.

GOD created time, light, and all things both seen and unseen… according to HIS Plan.  Only GOD can truly create something from nothing and that is an integral part of HIS Nature. 

With this understanding, we see that FATHER provided us with Scripture to assist us in walking out HIS Plan on the earth.

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in Romans chapter 8:

27 God, the Searcher of the heart, knows fully our longings, yet HE also understands the desires of the Spirit, because the Holy Spirit passionately pleads before God for us, His Holy ones, in perfect harmony with God’s plan and our destiny.

28 So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good, for we are His Lovers who have been called to fulfill His designed purpose.

29 For He knew all about us before we were born and He destined us from the beginning to share the likeness of His Son. This means the Son is the oldest among a vast family of brothers and sisters who will become just like Him.

30 Having determined our destiny ahead of time, He called us to Himself and transferred His perfect righteousness to everyone He called. And those who possess His perfect righteousness He co-glorified with His Son!

You and I are important to Our Heavenly Father, and we are included in HIS Divine Master Plan!  Jesus’ first coming is one aspect of HIS Plan and, Jesus’ second coming is a continuation of THE PLAN.  It is not an isolated, separate event.

It is written by The Holy Spirit in Isaiah chapter 46:

9 Remember the miracles of long ago. Acknowledge that I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like Me.

10 I declare from the beginning how it will end and foretell from the start what has not yet happened. I decree that My purpose will stand, and I will fulfill My every plan.

We will either go with the flow, or we will try to resist and suffer the consequences of sin.  To me, the answer is obvious.

The Beloved Disciple wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1^st John chapter 3:

1 Look with wonder at the depth of the Father’s marvelous Love that He has lavished on us! He has called us and made us His very own Beloved Children. The reason the world doesn’t recognize who we are is that they didn’t recognize Him.

2 Beloved, we are God’s children right now; however, it is not yet apparent what we will become. But we do know that when it is finally made visible, we will be just like Him, for we will see Him as He truly is.

3 And all who focus their hope on Him will always be purifying themselves, just as Jesus is pure.

As we comprehend HIS Plan, we will have no problem in purifying ourselves.

FATHER promised a specific blessing to those who read and obey HIS Word referring the return of Christ!

The Holy Spirit is vital to our future.

Jesus spoke in John chapter 16:

13 However, when He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all Truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will prophetically tell you things to come.

Where are all the prophets in the church services today?  How many churches promote the operation of the Gifts of THE SPIRIT?

Paul wrote by The Holy Spirit in 1st Corinthians chapter 12:

28 And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of Tongues.

Many pastors will embrace arguments that effectively water down this passage.  Why?  Often, they simply want to coddle those who are financial influencers.  It is as though those who are wealthy are somehow more spiritually mature than the rest of us.

Wisdom responds to these arguments in Proverbs chapter 23:

4 Don’t compare yourself to the rich. Surrender your selfish ambition and evaluate them properly.

5 For no sooner do you start counting your wealth than it sprouts wings and flies away like an eagle in the sky—here today, gone tomorrow!

I have known many individuals who have seen their wealth fly away in a very short period of time.  They were truly humbled when they lost their influence due to their wealth.  They had no idea what the future held for them.

Paul warns us of the future as he wrote by The Holy Spirit in 2^nd Thessalonians chapter 2:

1 Now, regarding the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we plead with you, beloved friends,

2 not to be easily confused or disturbed in your minds by any kind of spirit, rumor, or letter allegedly from us, claiming that the Day of the Lord has already come.

3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. Before that day comes the rebellion must occur and the “outlaw”—the destructive son—will be revealed in his true light.

The signs are everywhere!  Perversion of the Truth is widespread, and predators are out there wanting to deceive us in any way possible.  Could any of us have predicted thirty years ago what we are seeing now in society?

Paul recorded by The Holy Spirit in 2^nd Timothy chapter 3:

1 But you need to be aware that in the final days the culture of society will become extremely fierce.

2 People will be self-centered lovers of themselves and obsessed with money. They will boast of great things as they strut around in their arrogant pride and mock all that is right. They will ignore their own families. They will be ungrateful and ungodly.

There is no question that this reality is being fully expressed in society today.

3 They will become addicted to hateful and malicious slander. Slaves to their desires, they will be ferocious, belligerent haters of what is good and right.

These people are redefining terms to fit their blindness.  They call good evil, and evil good.

4 With brutal treachery, they will act without restraint, bigoted and wrapped in clouds of their conceit. They will find their delight in the pleasures of this world more than the pleasures of the Loving God.

5 They may pretend to have a respect for God, but in reality they want nothing to do with God’s power. Stay away from people like these!

We can and should minister to the lost, but we should fellowship with them lest we become like them in their blindness. 

We must focus on being a Light unto the world… now is the time!